Youth League: AC Milan crowned champions after thrilling final against Salzburg

Rossoneri lift the trophy for the first time

Exciting match sees Milan triumph on penalties

AC Milan's Primavera side have been crowned champions of the UEFA Youth League, seeing off Red Bull Salzburg 4-2 on penalties after an entertaining 1-1 draw in Nyon, Switzerland.

Yacine Adli opened the scoring for Milan in the first half, before Benjamin Sesko equalized for Salzburg early in the second period. Neither side could find a winning goal in extra time, meaning the match went to a penalty shootout.

Milan goalkeeper Andreas Jungdal was the hero for the Italian side, saving two Salzburg penalties. Lorenzo Colombo, Gabriele Bellodi, Emil Roback, and Peter Haugstad all converted their spot-kicks for Milan, while only Sesko and Bryan Okoh were successful for Salzburg.

The victory is Milan's first in the UEFA Youth League, having lost in the final to Chelsea in 2015. It is also the first time an Italian team has won the competition since Inter Milan in 2016.

Milan's triumph is a testament to the club's excellent youth development system. The Rossoneri have a long history of producing talented young players, and this latest success is further evidence of their commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.

The victory is also a major boost for Milan's first team. The Primavera side have provided several players to the senior team in recent years, and the likes of Gianluigi Donnarumma, Patrick Cutrone, and Davide Calabria are all now regulars.

Milan's success in the UEFA Youth League is a sign of the club's bright future. The Rossoneri have a talented group of young players, and they will be hoping to challenge for major honors in the years to come.

Match highlights

• Milan took the lead in the 22nd minute when Yacine Adli fired home a low shot from the edge of the area.
• Salzburg equalized in the 55th minute when Benjamin Sesko headed in a cross from the left.
• Neither side could find a winning goal in extra time, meaning the match went to a penalty shootout.
• Milan goalkeeper Andreas Jungdal saved two Salzburg penalties to help his side to victory.

Reaction

"It's an incredible feeling," said Milan captain Lorenzo Colombo. "We've worked so hard for this, and it's amazing to finally win the trophy."

"We knew it would be a tough game, but we never gave up," added Milan coach Federico Guidi. "We showed great character and determination, and we deserved to win."

"We're very proud of our players," said Salzburg coach Marco Rose. "They played their hearts out, but it wasn't our night. We'll learn from this and come back stronger next season."